Spring … simply spring.

If you or a friend or a family member is thinking of moving to a retirement community soon, the arrival of spring is just one more reason to throw open the windows and start cleaning and decluttering. But, according to an article in U.S. News & World Report, no matter how close you are to making that decision, downsizing your belongings and simplifying your life is a smart and healthy thing to do — right now.

The most logical place to begin, the experts say, is by not adding to what you already have. Think twice or even three times before you buy something you honestly don’t need. Get this under control, and you’ll immediately relieve the stress of wondering how you’re going to pay for new things and where you’re going to put them.

According to the U.S. News & World Report story, “There is another benefit to downsizing that not everyone realizes. Less clutter can lead to a clearer, calmer mind … when you have a lot of stuff, you have to keep organized or you’ll be constantly misplacing items, wasting time seeking out lost things and fretting over not having enough space.” Furthermore, fewer possessions usually equates to less maintenance and therefore fewer things to worry about — a genuine stress reliever.

Easier said than done? That’s true of many things that are worth doing. But when balanced against enjoying a calmer, cleaner, healthier life, it simply makes sense, doesn’t it?

Simpson Meadows in Chester County understands the challenges of lifestyle transitions and the intricacies of downsizing. Please give us a call soon; we’d love to help with any questions or concerns you may have, including the availability of apartments or the need for our superb Memory Care and Assisted Living programs. Call (484) 364- 3462.

Who says de-cluttering can’t be fun?

1. Fill at least one box with things you know you can do without, so you’re ready for the next charity truck coming to your neighborhood. Your discards are someone else’s godsend.
2. Do you have “collectibles” that “collect” dust? If so, you may be able to turn doo-dads into dollars with the help of a downsizing expert.
3. When was the last time you opened the “junk drawer” in your kitchen? Ask a friend to help dig through it, and see who can guess what those random keys open. Toss or donate the rest.
4. Ask a grandchild to help go through one of your closets. Chances are good they’ll be thrilled to haul away some “vintage treasures.”